“The Discovery of India” is not merely a book; it is a profound exploration of a nation’s soul, a journey through millennia of history, and a reflection on the cultural tapestry that makes India unique. As I, Jawaharlal Nehru, pen these words from the confines of Ahmednagar Fort Prison in 1944, I nd myself embarking on an intellectual odyssey that spans the breadth of India’s past and present, seeking to uncover the essence of this ancient land that has captivated minds and hearts for generations.
This work is born out of a deep-seated desire to understand and articulate the intricate threads that weave together the fabric of Indian civilization. It is a personal quest, driven by the questions that have long lingered in my mind: What is India? What is the source of its enduring vitality? How has it withstood the test of time, absorbing countless influences yet retaining its core identity?
